Low cost and flexible energy management system defined in a single unitary housing

ABSTRACT

A device configured in a unitary housing which includes a computing device with memory that stores energy information. A power supply and prongs attach to the power supply in the same unitary housing, wherein the prongs are configured to plug into a wall outlet.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 61/304,712, filed Feb. 15, 2010, entitled “LowCost And Flexible Energy Management System”, by Venkatakrishnan et al.;U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/853,342, filed Aug. 10, 2010,entitled “Sub-Metering Hardware For Measuring Energy Data Of EnergyConsuming Device”, by Kobraei et al.; and U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/853,334, filed Aug. 10, 2010, entitled “Diagnostics UsingSub-Metering Device” by Kobraei et al., the disclosures of each of whichare incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

The following disclosure relates to energy management, and moreparticularly to a premises energy management system for management ofhousehold consumer appliances, as well as other energy consuming devicesand/or systems found in the home, at times called herein as accessoriesor network accessories. The present disclosure finds particularapplication to a device which controls operation of the accessories(e.g., consumer appliances, as well as other energy consuming devicesand/or systems), and acts as a controller/gateway between a Utilitycompany network and the consumer appliances, as well as other energyconsuming devices and/or systems. The controller/gateway device to bediscussed below is at times called herein a Home Energy Gateway (HEG).

Currently Utility companies commonly charge a flat rate for energy, butwith the increasing cost of fuel prices and high energy usage duringcertain parts of the day, Utility companies have to buy more energy tosupply consumers during peak demand. Consequently, Utility companies arebeginning to charge higher rates during peak demand. If peak demand canbe lowered, then a potential cost savings can be achieved and the peakload that the Utility company has to accommodate is lessened.

One proposed third party solution is to provide a system where acontroller switches the actual energy supply to the appliance or controlunit on and off. However, there is no active control beyond the mereon/off switching. It is believed that others in the industry cease someoperations of certain appliances during on-peak time.

Additionally, some electrical Utility companies are moving to anAdvanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system which needs to communicatewith appliances, HVAC, water heaters, etc., in a home or officebuilding. All electrical Utility companies (more than 3,000 in the US)will not be using the same communication method and protocol to signalin the AMI system. Similarly, known systems do not communicate directlywith the appliance using a variety of communication methods andprotocols, nor is a modular and standard method created forcommunication devices to interface and to communicate selectableoperational modes to the main controller of the appliance.

Home energy management (e.g., HEM) systems are being used to reduceenergy consumption in homes and buildings, in a consumerfriendly/compatible manner. Existing HEMs are commonly placed in one oftwo general categories:

-   -   In the first category, the HEM is in the form of a special        custom configured computer with an integrated display, which        communicates to devices in the home and stores data, and also        has simple algorithms to enable energy reduction. This type of        device may also include a keypad for data entry or the display        may be a touch screen. In either arrangement, the display,        computer and key pad (if used) are formed as a single unit. This        single unit is either integrated in a unitary housing, or if the        display is not in the same housing, the display and computer are        otherwise connected/associated upon delivery from the factory        and/or synchronized or tuned to work as a single unit.    -   In the second category, the HEM is in the form of a low cost        router/gateway device in a home that collects information from        devices within the home and sends it to a remote server and in        return receives control commands from the remote server and        transmits it to energy consuming devices in the home. In this        category, again, as in the first, the HEM may be a custom        configured device including a computer and integrated or        otherwise connected/associated display (and keypad, if used)        designed as a single unit. Alternately, the HEM maybe        implemented as home computer such as lap top or desk top        operating software to customize the home computer for this use.

Both of the current existing types have significant disadvantages due tohigh consumer cost, low flexibility and increased system complexity.

The first category requires a large upfront cost to the consumer,because the cost of providing an integrated display on the HEM veryexpensive. In addition, the electronics required to drive the display iscomplex and expensive. Further, from a consumer point of view, they areforced to add one more display screen to their home in addition to thehome computer, smart phones, televisions and the displays onpre-existing home devices such as thermostats, appliance displays etc.

The second category of HEM involves a substantial cost to provide theserver infrastructure and data transfer. In addition, this type of HEMmust be connected continuously with a remote server otherwise energydata logging and energy saving commands for the devices in the home willbe lost during service disruptions. In addition, this configurationrequires connection to the Internet to access and view data. Thereforethis second configuration is very limiting in areas where Internetpenetration is very low

These HEMs do not take into consideration that data bandwidth requiredto support a network of energy consuming devices is much smaller thanthe data bandwidth required for the networking of consumer electronicsproducts, which is usually high bandwidth and high speed. The networkingstandards, including the physical layer, networking layer andapplication layers are therefore not optimized for the end use.

Further, consumers want to be able to view and control energyconsumption information through a variety of consumer electronic devicesavailable in the home. To enable this it is required that energyconsumption and control information must be easily transferable from thenetworks of energy consuming devices to networks of consumer electronicsdevices. In addition, consumers are used to interacting with consumerelectronics devices. So the consumer interaction data on a consumerelectronics device should be able to flow into the network for energyconsuming devices and to enable command and control of the energyconsuming devices which has not been a consideration of existingsystems.

The present disclosure is intended to address these and other issues.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A device configured in a unitary housing which includes a computingdevice with memory that stores energy information. A power supply andprongs attach to the power supply in the same unitary housing, whereinthe prongs are configured to plug into a wall outlet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a system in which the concepts of the presentapplication are implemented.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a Home Energy Gateway (HEG) of the presentapplication.

FIG. 3 is a hardware block diagram of the HEG.

FIGS. 4A-4P illustrates views of the physical HEG device.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram for connecting the HEG.

FIG. 6 is a graphical illustration of a step in setting up the HEG.

FIG. 7 is a graphical illustration of a step of connecting the HEG to aWi-Fi access point.

FIG. 8 is a graphical illustration of a step of connecting the HEG tothe Internet.

FIG. 9 is a graphical illustration of a step of connecting the HEG and asmart meter.

FIG. 10 is a graphical illustration of a step of making connections toappliances.

FIG. 11 illustrates remote agent data access.

FIG. 12 is an example message payload to update a schedule.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is an exemplary implementation of a home/premises energymanagement system 100 according to the present application.

The main source of information flow for the home is shown as smartelectric meter 102 acting as trust center, coordinator, and/or andenergy service portal (ESP), and which is configured in operativeconnection/communication with a home energy gateway (HEG) 104 of thepresent application.

It is well known that the functions of smart meter 102 may be separatedinto different devices. For example, if the home does not have a smartmeter 102—so the electric meter functions only as a meter to provideconsumption information—other components can be used to provide theadditional capabilities. For example, homes without smart meter 102, canhave the metering functionality of smart meter 102 replaced with asimple radio and current transformer (CT) configuration. Also, there aredevices that can be placed on the outside of the meter to communicateconsumption by reading pulse counts or the rotating disk of the meter.In this embodiment, smart meter 102 is shown with an IEEE 802.15.4 radio(such as in the configuration of a ZigBee type; where ZigBee is aspecification for a suite of high level communication protocols usingsmall, low-power digital radios based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard forwireless home area networks (WHANs;), but the meter could alsocommunicate by a number of other standards such as IEEE 1901 (e.g., HomePlug Green Phy or Home Plug AV specifications), among others.

Computer 106 (such as a desk top, lap top of other computing device) isin operative attachment to modem/router 108, a common manner ofattaching computers to internet 110. In FIG. 1, computer 106 isconnected to modem/router 108 by a wired IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet)connection 111. However, it is to be appreciated the connection could bemade by other known arrangements such as an IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi)connection, power line communication/power line carrier (PLC)connection, among others. In one embodiment, the PLC connection is madeusing an adaptor such as sold by Netgear Inc. of San Jose Calif. orother manufacturer for that purpose. Also, although a modem/routerarrangement is shown in system 100, it is not required, and the systemwould function for its primary purpose of monitoring and displayingenergy consumption information without such an arrangement. In that casecomputer 106 would connect directly to HEG 104 via a wired or wirelessconnection.

A web/internet enabled smart phone (or other smart hand-held device) 112is configured to communicate with HEG 104 for displaying data andconfiguring accessories (such as home appliances 114 a-114 k.Accessories 114 a-114 k fall into two main categories sensors anddevices (where, depending on how the accessories are used, some willfall into both categories).

Examples of sensors include solar meters 114 a, gas meters 114 b,temperature sensors 114 c, motion sensors 114 d, and appliancesreporting their power consumption (such as dishwashers 114 e,refrigerators 114 f, stoves 114 g, washers/dryers 114 h, etc.). Devicesinclude thermostats 114 i, alarms 114 j and simple switches 114 k, alongwith the appliances (e.g., dishwashers 114 e, etc.), when performingtheir normal functions. The foregoing are just some examples ofaccessories to which the concepts of the present application will apply.

The HEG 104 is constructed with computational capabilities and multiplecommunication technologies but without its own integral display screen,its audio visual display capability being limited to status indicatorsas hereinafter described. Rather it is configured to communicate withremote devices having user interface displays, such as for example,personal computers, smart phones, web-enabled TV, etc, so as tocommunicate with the user via these displays. In contrast to existingcontrollers (such as a HEM) used in home energy systems, HEG 104 issignificantly smaller, cheaper, and consumes less power. The HEG 104also has the capability of operating over multiple communicationnetworks which use different formats, protocols, and bandwidths. Thisallows HEG 104 to acquire and manipulate (e.g., reformat) data of onecommunication network (e.g., that which monitors/controls the homeappliances) and to supply that manipulated data to another communicationnetwork (e.g., to the consumer electronics network, such as to a homecomputer, smart phone, web-enabled TV, etc.), even though these networksare not generally compatible. The manipulation or reformation includesputting the data in a format and/or location (e.g., the database 206 ofFIG. 2) whereby it is accessible by the other communication networks. Insome cases the reformatting may only need to provide the data to adatabase accessible to the other communication networks, while in stillother cases the present system translates the data from a protocolunderstandable by one communication into a protocol understandable bythe other communication networks

As another example, HEG 104 is connected to system loads (e.g., the homeappliances, etc.) over one type of communication network, to the Utilitycompany over a different communication network, and to a display over athird different communication network. In one particular embodimentconnection to the display is via a Wi-Fi communication network,connection to the Utility Company (over the meter) is via a ZigBeecommunication network, and connection to the home accessory(sensor/device/appliance) network is over the third. Alternatively, in ahome where the accessories and Utility Company's rules are different,the data could be structured differently. For example, the whole homeconsumption could be available over the Internet or via a ZigBee meteron the second network. Further, in addition to the display, several homeautomation accessories including pool controllers, emergency generators,and storage batteries are designed to be accessed over Ethernet usingInternet Protocol (IP).

Turning to FIG. 2 depicted is a block diagram 200 illustrating oneembodiment of HEG 104. On the left hand side of the figure outside ofblock diagram 200 is remote configuration and data acquisition block(and is understood to include displays of computing devices,web/internet enabled phones, and other devices that are separate fromthe HEG) 202. The external data and remote configuration requests arereceived into block 200 via Wi-Fi radio block 204, which in turnaccesses energy and event database 206. The external data and remoteconfiguration requests of block 202 could also enter block diagram 200via Ethernet port 208 in order to access the energy and event database206. In still a further embodiment a power line communication (PLC)adapter 210 (dotted lines) may be used with or as an alternative to theEthernet port 208, in order to input the external data and remoteconfiguration requests 202 into the energy and event database 206.Blocks 204,208, and 210, alone or in various combinations are understoodto be a first data interface channel/block.

On the right hand side of FIG. 2 is a second data interfacechannel/block 212 (such as a 802.15.4 Zigbee radio) and a third datainterface channel/block 214 (such as a 802.15.4 Zigbee radio). Thesecond data interface channel/block 212 is configured to send andreceive data and configuration messages to/from utility meter Zigbeenetwork 216, and the third data interface channel/block 214 isconfigured to send and receive data and configuration messages to/fromthe internal home area network (HAN) (e.g., data and configurationmessages from accessories/appliances in the system) 218. The data andmessages from these sources are also provided to energy and eventdatabase 206, via internal HAN smart energy block 220, which includescapabilities to identify data/information from the accessories.Functions of database 206 and HAN smart energy block 220 are discussedin more detail below. In still a further embodiment power lineinterfaces 222, 224 (dotted lines) may be included with or as analternative to the blocks 212, 214, and can be defined as the respectivesecond and third interface channels/blocks.

FIG. 3 shows a more detailed hardware block diagram 300 of HEG 104. Thisfigure includes a depiction of input/output (I/O) block 302. The I/Oblock 302 includes LEDs or other status identification devices 304,306,and 308 which are used to convey network status for the three individualnetworks of HEG 104. The LEDs convey status from off (no network),flashing (network available), to solid lit (joined network) for eachnetwork. Optionally an additional LED or other status identificationdevice 310 is provided to identify power availability. Also, if HEG 104is designed to handle additional communication networks an additionalLED or other status/identification device (not shown) may be added.These status lights allow a user to confirm the HEG is working. By thisdesign if there is an issue, a user may connect to HEG 104 via a userinterface held on a computing device having a display (e.g., a homecomputer, a portable computer, an internet enabled phone, a web enabledphone, an internet enabled handheld computing device, or web enabledhandheld computing device, etc.) for more detailed investigation of theissue. Also depicted is reset push button 312 on an external surface ofthe HEG, which (as will be shown below) may be assessed by a userexternally on the HEG unit itself. A power supply 314 built into the HEGis attached directly to external prongs 315 (see FIGS. 4A-4P for moredetailed views), which plug directly into a wall outlet 316. In someembodiments the prongs are removable and/or collapsible. When removablethe prongs may be removed and/or changed with and/or without a tool. Theremovable and/or collapsible design of the prongs allows for compactshipping and/or carrying of the HEG. The built in power supplyconfigured in some embodiments to charge an internal storage battery318. Power supply 314 supplies power to CPU/processor 320. Additionalconnections to CPU/processor 320 include an Ethernet connection 322, anexternal flash 324, a real time clock 326 and programming/debug port328, which along with other elements described above form the singleboard computer of the HEG 104.

In one embodiment, the HEG hardware comprises of a single board computerwith the following specification:

-   -   Samsung S3C2450 32 bit RISC Microprocessor ARM926EJS, 400 MHz    -   DDR2 SDRAM (32 MB)    -   NAND Flash Memory for Embedded Linux & HEG Software (16 MB)    -   NAND Flash Memory for Database Storage (16 MB)

The single board computer is configured to interact with multiplecommunication interfaces which can have different physical, networkingand application layers.

A first data interface channel (which may have an Ethernet and Wi-Fiinterface) includes the following specification:

-   -   IEEE 802.11 big Wi-Fi    -   WPA, WPA2, WEP-40, WEP-104, 802.1x, PEAP, LEAP, TLS, TTLS, FAST    -   MAC Address Filtering    -   1011 00 Base-T Ethernet Connectivity

Second and third data interface channels (e.g., the two Zigbeeinterfaces) have in one embodiment, the following specification:

-   -   IEEE 802.15.4 Compliant 2.4 GHz Wireless Interface    -   Smart Energy Profile, Home Automation Profile    -   Transmit Power: 20 dBm, Receive Sensitivity. 0˜−100 dBm    -   AES 128-bit Encryption    -   Install Code using 128-bit Oseas Hash Function    -   ECC Key Exchange using Certicom Certificates    -   SEP 1.0 Security Requirements    -   CBKE ZigBee Link Key Security    -   ZigBee Pro Feature Set

The two Zigbee communication interfaces are provided so the HEG can talkto two separate energy networks.

Using one Zigbee interface, (referred to as the second data interfacechannel or second network) the HEG communicates with the smart meternetwork. This interface reads the smart meter, an energy-meteringdevice, and records the data in the database of the HEG.

The HEG communicates with the devices within the home using the otherZigbee communication interface (referred to as the third data interfacechannel or third network). Using this interface, the HEG reads theconsumption of the individual energy consuming devices and records it inthe database.

Utility communications such as price signals demand response signals andtext messages are received through the second data interface channel,recorded in the database, and communicated to the devices in the homethrough the third data interface channel. The command and controlinformation of the energy consuming devices and their response toUtility signals is received through the third data interface channel,recorded in a database, and communicated to the Utility company via thesecond data interface channel, the communication being routed throughthe Utility smart meter.

The HEG can also be programmed to vary the response of energy consumingdevices to utility communication based on consumer preferences. Theconsumer may, if desired, program the schedule, mode of operation andcreate unique device response to utility messages. This programming iscommunicated through the first data interface channel.

The stored events, energy data, utility messages and consumer settingpreferences are also accessed through the first data interface channel,which operates at a higher bandwidth and uses a consumer electronicscompatible/friendly communication protocol. For example, in someembodiments this communication could be over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

The user interface is, in one embodiment, a software application thatresides in one of the consumer electronics products in a home, on a homecomputing device, a web enabled phone, etc. These homeaccessories/devices communicate to the HEG through a predefinedcommunication. The user interface may request specific data from the HEGlike historical electricity consumption information and the HEG can pushinformation to devices in the network of accessories (set-up such as ina Local Area Network (LAN)), like price changes or utility messages,with all communication exchanges occurring thru commands based on thiscommunication protocol. In addition, the energy consuming devices can becontrolled or interfaced through the HEG, the user interfacecommunicating with the HEG using this communication protocol over thefirst data interface channel and the HEG communicating with the energyconsuming devices with a low bandwidth protocol using a differentphysical communication layer.

The term “communication protocol” commonly is known to refer to at leastthree aspects—language, transport, and session. The term “language” isdefined as the structure used to communicate data or commands includingbut not limited to such well known languages as: XML, JSON-RPC, XML-RPC,SOAP, bit stream, or line terminated string. The term “transport” isdefined as the protocol used to deliver the data or commands, andincludes but is not limited to well-known protocols such as UDP, TCP,and HTTP. “Session” is defined as the period during which the Device ispushing data via a socket based connection, or the Device is sendingdata in response to being polled. Examples of data being pushed includeTCP socket streams, and examples of polling include the well knownrestful, create, read, update, and delete methods.

The HEG plays a key role in the interaction with the Utility Company inregistering and communicating with devices within the home. Typicallydevices that have to work with the smart grid thru the smart meter needto be registered with the smart meter. This means that for every energyconsuming device that is installed in a consumer's home, the consumerhas to contact the Utility and provide them an install code to registerthe device, which requires time and resources for both the UtilityCompany and the consumer. The HEG simplifies this process because onlythe HEG device needs to be registered with the Utility Company by theconsumer. Once the HEG is registered to the smart meter, the HEG thenacts as a single point gateway for the Utility Company. In this way allother devices in the home are registered with the HEG and communicatewith the HEG. The HEG then summarizes device actions, responses andstatus and communicates a single message to the Utility Company. Thissaves resources and infrastructure for the Utility Company's metersystem as there is only one device communicating from the home, ratherthan 10 to 15 devices receiving messages, which would otherwise requirea large amount of bandwidth.

Turning now to FIGS. 4A-4P illustrated are various views of HEG 104. HEG104 has no display screen or input keys. This configuration allows HEG104 to be configured in a very compact design. In one embodiment, thisresults in the HEG having approximate dimensions of 53 (W)×72 (H)×55 (D)mm (or 2.09 (W)×2.83 (H)×2.16 (D) inches), with an approximate depth (D)of 37 mm (or 1.45 inches) not including the prongs of the plug. Thevolume of the HEG is approximately 160 em̂3 and the weight of the HEGbeing approximately 100 g. It is therefore small enough to be pluggedinto a standard wall outlet, and does not need space on a counter,tabletop and does not need to be attached to a wall or other surfacewith screws or adhesive. Because it is not physically connected to aseparate display or keyboard, there are no wires to add clutter or getcaught on items. Having the power supply 314 (e.g., see FIG. 4N)embedded and/or integrated in the HEG helps maintain a small HEG size,while allowing placement in small out of the way areas. It also allowsaccess to the power lines for PLC communication. Such a small powersupply can also be tuned to exactly the needs of the HEG, instead ofselecting from a standard plug transformer, and avoids the risk of aconsumer plugging in the wrong wall adaptor. The design also includesadditional flame retardant materials in the HEG housing, and securelyattaches the outlet prongs to the housing. It is understood that inother embodiments the power supply may be configured separate from theHEG and the power would then be delivered though an input cord or othersupply arrangement.

FIG. 4C shows recessed reset button 400 (corresponding to block 312 ofFIG. 3) and Ethernet input 402 (e.g., see 208 of FIG. 3). In thisembodiment reset button 400 is recessed for activation by a pointed tool(e.g., a pen or pencil tip). This design avoids inadvertent resets. Ofcourse in alternative implementations the reset button may be anexternal button accessible by a user's finger. Prongs 315 are securelyattached to the HEG body in such manner that the prongs will carry theweight of the HEG body when the prongs are connected to a wall outlet.The prongs 315 are, in at least one embodiment connected directly topower supply 314 to carry power as shown graphically, for example, inFIG. 4N. In other embodiments, such as in a power line communicationembodiment, the prongs are further connected within the gateway for datacommunications via the external power lines coupled to the wall outletwith devices such as but not limited to external/remote servers. FIGS.4A-4N further show the single unitary housing concept (e.g., see 404 ofFIG. 4M) and the single board computer concept (e.g., see 406 of FIG.4N), among other design concepts discussed herein.

Turning now to the setup of the HEG, the consumer/user will need toconfigure HEG 104 to monitor energy consumption. Prior to starting tocommission the HEG, the consumer loads specific Client ApplicationSoftware (CAS) onto his/her computer or smart phone. Typically thissoftware would be downloaded over the Internet or purchased from thephone provider. The software may be a general purpose Java applicationthat will run on any PC, or may be tailored specifically to the physicallimitations and operating system of the HEG, which is common in thecellular phone business. Alternatively a Web CAS could also be used,where a Web CAS is typically downloaded on demand each time it isexecuted, allowing developers to update the application for all users asneeded. FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 which illustrates, for oneembodiment, the steps undertaken to achieve the configuration describedabove. An expanded discussion of configuring the HEG as outlined in FIG.5 is set forth in later sections of this disclosure. After starting 502,a user connects to the HEG 504 by providing the HEG with power (e.g.,plugging it into a home outlet) and accessing the HEG via the CAS. TheCAS allows the user to provide the HEG with a name so it may beidentified in the network (see FIG. 6). Once connected, if there is ahome wireless network (such as Wi Fi) 506, the user may optionallyconnect the HEG to that network 508 (see FIG. 7). Next, if the user hasa home Internet connection 510, the HEG can be connected to this network512 (see FIG. 8). Once these steps are accomplished, the user connectsthe HEG to the energy supplier (e.g., Utility company) network 514 (seeFIG. 9). Finally, the user connects the appliances (and other systems)to the HEG 516 (see FIG. 10).

1. Connecting to the Device. (FIG. 6)

Turning now to FIG. 6, as mentioned above, a particular aspect of HEG104 is the value and flexibility obtained by not having a dedicated,integrated user interface display. Not having such a display requiressome initial set-up steps in the configuration of the HEG into the homeenergy network (or HAN) in order to connect the HEG to the network, viathe first interface channel. These steps include:

-   -   a. Connect the HEG to its power source (e.g., a common home        power outlet). This will power the LEDs (304-308) causing them        to light.    -   b. Connect an Ethernet cable from computer to device to Ethernet        input (208), or establish a peer-to-peer wireless connection        (e.g., wireless input 204).    -   c. Install HEG setup software (such as CAS) on a smart phone,        computer or other device capable of operating software.    -   d. Use the software which employs zero-configuration networking        (such as the Apple Corps Bonjour from Apple Corp) to detect the        HEG. Once the HEG is detected, the user provides the HEG with a        name and password to prevent others from modifying their        personal settings.

2. Connecting to Home Network (FIG. 7)

As mentioned above, step 508 of FIG. 5 is optional. However, for homeswith a Wi-Fi network and where the HEG is presently attached via anEthernet connection, step 508 is available. In this case, the Ethernetcable would be disconnected and the HEG can then be moved to an out ofthe way home electrical outlet as it operates in via the Wi-Ficonnection. By this action the consumer will still have access to theHEG over their home network but the HEG would not need a primeelectrical outlet. If the HEG is replacing a HEM or other type ofcontroller which has a built in or otherwise connected display and istherefore mounted on a wall for viewing of the display, the HEG in thewireless environment would of course not need to be mounted on a walland could, again be, located in an out of the way electrical outlet. Ifthe user/consumer does not have a home wireless network, they mayconnect the HEG to a router to share their Internet connection (or IPNetwork) or remain directly connected to their computer if they do nothave an Internet connection. If connected over Wi-Fi the Wi-Fi LED onthe HEG will illuminate.

3. Connecting to Home Internet (FIG. 8)

This step is also optional, and is not required for operation of theHEG. No special configuration is required on the HEG. Depending on thesecurity implemented on the consumer's Internet connection, somemodification to their router and/or firewall may be required. In someinstances the use of the HEG may be advantageous over a “CloudComputing” model for home energy control, as that the data storage forthe HEG is local.

4. Connecting to Energy Supplier Network (FIG. 9)

Connection steps for connecting in a typical smart meter environment andfor connecting in an Internet environment, via the second interfacechannel are now described:

a. The following describes the steps to take for a typical smart meterapplication.

-   -   i. For a smart meter, either wired or wireless, the HEG will        connect to the smart meter over a second network. The        user/consumer locates their install code that is displayed in        their CAS. Alternatively the install code can be written on the        HEG or supplied with its documentation. The consumer then takes        that install code and depending on their Utility either enters        the install code into a browser window or they call their        Utility's Consumer Service Center.    -   ii. Also they will add identifying information for the home in        which the HEG is located. Depending on the sophistication of the        utility network, they may be asked to enter their address,        account number of their bill, or to call and get a special        identifying code.    -   iii. Once this is complete, a command is sent from the CAS        (e.g., software added to the homeowner's computing device) to        the HEG over the IP Network, via the first interface channel, to        have the HEG start the joining process on the Utility network.    -   iv. Once the appropriate security has been negotiated, the HEG        will send a confirmation back to the CAS over the IP network to        indicate that the connection has been made to the Utility        network, via the second interface channel.    -   v. The HEG will also turn the Utility Network LED ON to notify        the consumer that it is connected. This allows for the consumer        to determine the state of the network just by glancing at the        HEG, without connecting an I/O device.    -   vi. The HEG will determine which of the devices on the Utility        network is the home's billing meter. Multiple devices could say        that they are a meter.    -   vii. Any devices that are found by the HEG that are not the        Utility (revenue meter are saved for configuring as part of the        home network.

This connection to the energy supply network is simplest if there isonly one meter on the Utility network, but there may be more (i.e.,there may be sub-meters).

Typically if there is a single device that is a meter and the singledevice has a Utility Services Interface (USI), the single device will bethe source of energy information (e.g., price load control commandsetc.). That is it is the billing meter. However in some areas a separatedevice may be employed to act as the Utility Services Interface (USI).

Therefore, if there are two devices that both are meters and neithermeter is the USI, the HEG undertakes additional investigation. Forexample, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) charger could be onthe Utility network as a meter and as a load control device, so it couldbe turned off during a grid emergency. Then the HEG would assign the onethat is not a load control device as the Utility meter. It is noted somemeters have disconnect switches installed inside of them, even in thiscase, the utility typically does not provide control of that switch tothe HAN, but only on its backhaul network.

With continuing attention to the connecting the HEG, connection stepsfor connection in an Internet environment for energy supplierinformation via the second interface channel rather than in a smartmeter environment, are now described:

b. For Internet based energy supplier information.

-   -   i. In this case the install code will typically not be required,        since the Utility network is not being used. The consumer will        start by entering identifying information on the home that the        HEG is in into a CAS window. Depending on the sophistication of        the utility network, they may need to enter their address,        account number off their bill, or they may need to call and get        a special identification code. They may also have to enter a        specific URI that indicates where the HEG can obtain pricing        information.    -   ii. Once this is complete, an XML message command will be sent        from the CAS to the HEG over the IP Network to have the HEG        contact the utility information page over the internet.    -   iii. Once the appropriate security has been negotiated, the HEG        will send a confirmation back to the CAS over the communication        (e.g., IP) network to indicate that the connection has been        made.

5. Connecting Appliances to Network. (FIG. 10)

Typically appliances will be installed on a home network (such as a LAN)that is entirely maintained by the homeowner. The ZigBee network is usedfor this purpose in the exemplar, but that is not critical to theinvention. Some devices, such as a Thermostat, or PHEV charger may betied directly to the Utility network in the same manner as the HEG, iffor instance, the PHEV qualifies for a different rate or the consumer isgetting a credit for allowing the Utility to control their HVAC. In thiscase the consumer can skip directly to step vi.

-   -   i. The consumer will enter the install code of the device into a        CAS window; the CAS will then transfer this message to the HEG        over the communication (e.g., IP) network.    -   ii. The HEG will create a third network, via the third interface        channel, and look for a device that is attempting to join. The        third network LED will flash.    -   iii. The consumer will then be asked to press a button or take        similar action on the device to tell it to join the network. The        precise action to take is dependent on the devices instructions.    -   iv. The HEG will exchange security information over the third        network with the device and compare it with the information        received over the first network, via the first interface        channel. If the information indicated the device is to be        trusted, it is let onto the network. In the situation above, the        third network LED will become lit.    -   v. The HEM will detect that there is a device on the network and        will gain basic information about the device. The device will        provide some configuration data, for example that it is a        washer, a water heater, or that it is a load control device or a        meter.    -   vi. The HEM will bring up a list of devices that it has found.        For ease of identifying the devices, it is easiest if the        consumer adds all the devices individually and fills in the        identifying information on each as it is found. The consumer can        also add a user-friendly name to his/her device at this time for        future identification.

1. For a device with a device type of appliance, the consumer may needto add a name like refrigerator, or dryer.

2. If there are multiple thermostats, the consumer may label one asupstairs and one as downstairs so that they can control themindependently.

3. Some devices will be added just as a meter. For example one suchdevice may be a meter on a solar or wind generation panel. The consumerwill have the opportunity to select the identity of the device from alist. Based on this selection the HEG will identify the accessory as aload or source (also called a supply). This is important later whencreating reports, because loads are a subset of the revenue meter, butthe sources are additions to the revenue meter.

4. Storage batteries will need to be identified as such so that the HEGcan read a field to indicate direction of power flow. While currentstandards have this field as optional, it is understood that a storagedevice would support it.

-   -   vii. The above steps can be completed as many times as needed to        enter all the devices the consumer wants to be included into the        network. In addition to devices mentioned above, a whole host of        home automation devices can be added, including but not being        limited to motion sensors, door sensors, lighting controls,        switches, smart plugs, bathroom scales. Anything which can        function by turning on/off, adjusting up or down, or provides        information on the amount of something can be easily integrated        into the data structures of the HEG.

6. Connecting to an External Server.

Attachment to an external server configuration, including but notlimited to a web server having a web service interface, and/or acloud-computing device is optional. An example, of one such connectionis to a Google Power Meter (GPM) service from Google Inc. To make thistype of connection the user/consumer would, in one embodiment, use theirCAS to connect to GPM, and the data would then be ported to the cloudserver. Either the user/consumer or the cloud server may select only toaccept a portion of the data. For example, the user/consumer may selectto pass the utility power meter to the cloud server, so he/she canaccess it from work, or the cloud server may limit the consumer to acertain number of devices (e.g., two devices) with certain (e.g., 15minutes) increments between points.

7. Connecting Zigbee Device

Numerous commercial devices are available for measuring and controllingplug loads and larger loads, as well as ZigBee home automation forcontrolling lights, security and comfort. One such example is theZBLC30-Dual (30/15 A) Relay with energy meter. This ZigBee 110/220VDual-relay (30/15 A) describes itself as a controller with energy meterwhich remotely controls high current heavy loads such as water heaters,pool pumps, pool heaters, electric vehicle charges, air conditioners,etc. Using the wireless ZigBee protocol allows the switch to constantlymeasure the power delivered to the load and report various parameterssuch as real and apparent power based on high accuracy industrystandards. This makes possible the intelligent management of largeappliances. This component is provided with both normally open (NO) andnormally closed (NC) contacts for maximum flexibility includingfail-safe configurations.

8. Connecting an External Device.

There are numerous devices available to consumers which have Ethernet orWi-Fi capabilities. For example a Pentair pool controller from PentairWater Pool and Spa, or an alarm system controller from Smart Home, arejust two examples.

By use of a special purpose application program (APP) these and othersuch devices can communicate with the consumer's energy managementsystem so that they can make adjustments to all of the systems in oneplace and set their own priorities. These APPs are loaded by the sameupdate program which manages the HEG software.

Turning now to of operation of the HEG, it is understood the HEG isdesigned to operate in different selectable operational modes and suchdifferent modes of operation use different data flows. Set out below areexamples of various data flows, which can be obtained by use of the HEG.

-   -   1. Power consumption data from meter to database:        -   a. HEG sets up a timer.        -   b. Periodically pings meter for consumption on the second            network.        -   c. Stores consumption data in data base.    -   2. Price signal sent to an appliance:        -   a. HEG receives a price schedule or price change from            Utility over the second network.        -   b. HEG stores price data in table in memory for future use            in calculating cost reports.        -   c. HEG reviews scheduling priorities received from consumer            over the first interface.        -   d. HEG sends load shed command to appliance or system (e.g.,            pool pump disconnect box) over third network.    -   3. Utility direct load control command sent to load control box        on an accessory (e.g., pool pump):        -   a. HEG receives a price schedule or price change from            Utility over the second network.        -   b. HEG reviews scheduling priorities received from consumer            over the first interface.        -   c. HEG sends load shed command to pool pump disconnect box            over the third network.    -   4. Power consumption data sent from an accessory (e.g., smart        appliance) to HEG database:        -   a. HEG sets up a timer.        -   b. Periodically pings meter for consumption on the second            network. The meter being at least one of a meter monitoring            whole home consumption and/or a meter monitoring energy            consumption at the particular appliance.        -   c. Stores consumption data in data base.    -   5. Daily power consumption cost chart sent to remote device        (e.g., computing device, hand held device, etc). In one        embodiment the daily power consumption cost chart expresses the        daily consumption of power by one or more of the accessories        and/or overall consumption of the premises or home (FIG. 11):        -   a. Handheld device contacts HEG over the first interface            (Wi-Fi), sending scripted request for data.        -   b. HEG reviews database and assembles data requested. Either            the HEG could retain cost data in a single table, or it            could pull consumption and price data from separate tables            and combine into cost data.        -   c. HEG formats data for report using open scripting commands            such as XML.        -   d. HEG sends requested information to handheld device over            the first interface.    -   6. Power consumption data sent from HEG to an external server        (e.g., web server, etc.):        -   a. Consumer sets up conditions for transmitting data to            external server over the first interface.            -   i. Consumer selects server from list or types in URL            -   ii. Consumer selects how frequently data is to be ported            -   iii. Consumer selects which data is to be ported        -   b. HEG sets up timer to meet consumer's request.        -   c. HEG assembles the subset of data requested by the            consumer and formats for transmission on Internet.        -   d. HEG posts data to webserver that consumer has selected.    -   7. Message sent from Utility to computer display, smart        appliance display or other computing device display:        -   a. HEG receives text message from Utility over the second            interface.        -   b. HEG reviews instructions from consumer on where Utility            messages should go (Computer screen, Thermostat Screen, TV            Set, Hand Held, Dedicated energy display) received over the            first interface.        -   c. HEG formats message appropriately for Interface and            pushes message to appropriate display device.

Once the consumer has the HEG connected to meters and devices andcollecting data they can start to take advantage of its capabilities. Aparticular benefit of this system, which uses the HEG without adedicated or integrated display, is the ability to use a high qualitydisplay to view data and interact with appliances without having to payfor it separately. Many consumers already have large displays of 17″,35″, even 52″ diagonals that they use for entertainment systems. Many ofthese devices are provided with Web CASs. Accessing the electricityconsumption of a home on a TV screen will provide a more readabledisplay of their consumption habits to the consumer than the smallmonochrome in-home displays that Utilities have been using in pilots. Inaddition being able to look at the change in energy consumption when youturn on a range or dryer, the present design provides consumers with anincreased awareness of where there energy dollar is going. Because theconsumer displays (e.g., TVs, computers, smart phones) are adapted tographical display, they are well suited to display this type ofinformation.

This improved interface also allows the consumer to fine tune theirresponse for different appliances with more detail than was possibleover a typical appliance control screen. Such customization can beaccomplished either in conjunction with energy prices, weatherinformation, time of day, occupancy or other external parameter, or justas a user defined rule without any outside parameters. Use of thedescribed interface may be used to have the HEG function in a variety ofdifferent modes of operation. Examples of such different modes ofoperation are discussed below, as well as in other section of thisdiscussion.

A first example: A dishwasher cycle is delayed because of high energycosts. However the water heater is not heating either. The HEG providesthe consumer with the option of waiting until the water heater hascaught up before starting the dishwasher.

Another dishwasher option: The consumer can determine to not allow (oralways require) heated dry, extra pre-washes or extra heat on adishwasher at any time, despite what is selected at the controls of thedishwasher. This feature may be valuable for people whose children areassisting with meal clean up.

A second example: The consumer starts their dryer in a delay start mode,but before the delay time is completed energy price goes up. Theconsumer will be asked if they still want the dryer to start whenscheduled.

An additional dryer example is to limit the maximum heat regardless ofthe energy level selected. This balance of saving energy at the expenseof drying time could be made at any time, or could be done to preventchildren or spouse from damaging garments by drying at too high atemperature.

An example of using weather is to prohibit dryer operation when theexternal temperature was above 80 degrees to avoid competing with theair conditioning, or to prohibit dryer use if the sun was shining andline-dry clothes instead.

A third example: The consumer can automate the decision for which ofvarious modes he/she would like his/her water heater to operate in.Depending on the water heater, the modes that can be selected frominclude: Electric Resistive Heaters, Electric Heat Pump, Gas, Solar, andOff. He/she can use electric price, weather, gas price and homeoccupancy to select from.

A washing machine example: The consumer could use this feature tocontrol which temperatures can be selected, or prohibit using the washerat certain electric costs.

The improved user interface is also an advantage when programmingdevices. Programmable thermostats are often hard to program via theirlimited user interfaces. For example, you have to push the menu buttontwice, then the left button, then the down button to set the hour, thenthe left button until a full schedule of 7 days with 4-6 events per dayhave been loaded. The user interface on the HEG with a computer orsmartphone can display all of this graphically. Because the consumer isfamiliar with the interface, the commands are more intuitive. Forexample, the consumer can drag and drop changes of times, and copy andpaste from of one day's schedule to a different day. Once the consumeris happy with the schedule, the whole schedule can be sent to the HEGover a high data rate Ethernet/Wi-Fi connection. The HEG will save theschedule internally. The consumer can build a number of schedules fordifferent modes of operation: Winter (Heating), Summer (Cooling), SummerVacation (Home empty, cool just slightly, circulate outside air atnight); Summer Kids Home (Cool During the day) etc. After the consumerselects one to load, the HEG loads the schedule to the thermostat.Thereafter the consumer can change schedules and return to the originalschedule without needing to reenter information.

Turning now to FIG. 12 shown is an example of the data portion of amessage payload that could be used to send a schedule to a thermostat.Appropriate headers and checksum fields can be added based on the exactcommunication protocol established.

The row Bytes is the size of the field. The Data Type and Field Namedescribe the type of data in each field. The schedule consists of aseries of Transition times, high set points, and low set points. Eachset point is scheduled to be in effect until the next transition. Thevariable field can contain multiple transitions until a final (nth)transition for a given day. At midnight the schedule will continue theprior day's last transition until the first transition of the new day.The Day of Week field identifies the day that is being scheduled. WhereDay 0 is Sunday, Day 1 is Monday, Day 2 is Tuesday etc. Alternatively abitmap field could be used to set the same schedule into multiple dayssimultaneously. The variable field can contain repeated Transitions.

The method of scheduling illustrated by the foregoing example ofprogramming a thermostat is not limited to a thermostat, but for othermodes of operation could be similarly applied to other accessories thatnormally run on a schedule. A different mode of operation, for example,could be a pool pump and spa controller, where high set point is spatemp and low set point is the pool temp.

Another application is setting pool pump run times, where the high andlow set points can be set at 0 and 100 to control off and on. A variablespeed controller could use 1-99 to indicate a percentage of full run.

This on off scheduling could also be used with a water heater controllerso it would not maintain water temperature when the homeowner isscheduled to be at work.

The HEG relies on a number of different softwareapplications/programs/sets. There is software on the HEG itself. Thereis a second piece of software on the desktop or laptop computer used toconfigure the HEG and gather data from it. There is a third piece ofsoftware on the smart phone. The phone and computer may be furtherdefined by the operating system, or may take advantage of a platformlike Java that allows the programs to operate on multiple operatingsystems. Each of these software applications/programs/sets can beupgraded independently of each other. The desktop (or laptop) and smartphone Apps also have a service that allows for interaction with the HEG.For example the service can ping a server associated with the HEG (e.g.,one that specifically supports the HEG as may be established andmaintained by or for the HEG manufacturer) every day checking for thelatest software release. As new software becomes available, either tocorrect issues or add features, they can down load the newest HEGsoftware and the push it down to the HEG. This way software sets can beupgraded independently of each other.

Once the HEG knows which appliances are on the network, it can alsocheck the server for updates for those devices, and download thatsoftware if needed.

In addition, the present system allows for provisioning (i.e., preparingthe system to accept new services) whereby special purpose software canbe downloaded. When the consumer buys a new washer, and registers itwith the HEG. The software can contact the associated server, and begiven an app to download. This app allows the consumer to set moredetailed control of the appliance. It would know for instance thisparticular washer has five wash temperatures. It would then provide theconsumer with the opportunity to customize their wash experience. Forexample the consumer could set the washer to not ever allow sanitationcycles and only allow hot wash when electric prices are at or below athreshold price (e.g., <$0.15 a kW/hr). Alternatively the customer maydecide that since they are on a gas water heater, the HEG should notcontrol water temp when electric price changes. Another function thatthe washer could have is a delayed start feature. If the washer is inthe delayed start, the consumer could (through the HEG) either tell thewasher to start now, or to delay its start even longer.

Another specific example of software that can be downloaded ismonitoring software. This software could be loaded as part ofregistering the appliance, or the consumer could download and run aspart of troubleshooting an issue before deciding to schedule a servicecall. Either on a preventative basis or in response to a service issue,specific software could be used that checks for issues in the appliance.A fairly simple implementation would be to have the software check forservice error codes and present them. A more elaborate appliance withinternal power monitoring features would have the appliance checkdifferent components and determine if the power draw characteristics arecorrect.

Then in another mode of operation, over time the HEG can monitor thehealth of the appliances, either passively by looking at performance oractively by getting health, maintenance, and diagnostic info from theappliance.

An example of passive operation is the monitoring a dryer. The HEG cannotice that the dryer says it is in high heat, but never goes over 3 kW.If this occurs on a single occasion this may be a loading or airflowcondition, but if it happens repeatedly, it may be a failed open heater.

In a more active mode of operation, the HEG could ping a dishwasher, andask it for all of its error codes. The HEG can then send thatinformation directly to the GE Server, send it upon the consumer'srequest, or make it available on screen to consumer when they call forservice. Alternatively, the consumer could download more detailedanalytical software if they were having issues with a specific appliancethat could run diagnostics on the appliance and sends the results backto the GE server so the technician could arrive with the correct part.

In addition to monitoring for service, the monitoring software can alsokeep the consumer up to date on the status of their home. For examplethe time remaining on an oven self-clean, the end of cycle on adishwasher, or the current hot water tank temperatures could becommunicated to the HEG by appliances over a the low bandwidth thirdnetwork. This info can then be sent to the consumer via the firstinterface to a Wi-Fi enabled smart phone or Web enabled television, orpossibly a Bluetooth device. It could also be sent to him/her outside ofthe home by email, SMS text message or similar method.

Also, as communication protocols in a home converge to common standards,the HEG is also adaptable to operate in a mode of operation to networkother devices within the home and to store data. For example the HEG canmonitor the health of consumers living in a home. In one such embodimenta bathroom weighing scale is enabled with a communication interface, andthe weight of a person is automatically read off the HEG and stored inthe data base with a time stamp, every time a person steps on the scale.The HEG is similarly adaptable to read other health parameters likeblood pressure, glucose, temperature etc.

In the same way, energy and water consumption in a home is an indicatorof daily life in a home. It can indicate activity in a home, the numberof people in a home, the health of people in a home, safety andintrusion in a home.

In yet other mode of operation the HEG is adaptable to operate with homeautomation and home security systems over open standards, coordinatingdevices trying to control lighting, pool pumps, and other devices. TheHEG is also adaptable to share information obtained from theaccessories, whereby the accessories act as occupancy or intruderdetection systems. For example, if the home security is in the awaymode, and the refrigerator door opens, this information is passed to thesecurity system, functioning in a manner just like a motion sensor.

Another option during provisioning is to download a software set thatcustomizes the display so that it essentially duplicates the features ofthe appliance, but uses large font and improved colors for people withpoor visual acuity. People with vision impairment could use a 17″ screenwith black numbers on a yellow background to set the temperatures on therefrigerator or schedule the self clean on an oven.

Other special purpose software may be offered in conjunction with aUtility company. The consumer may have a special code from their UtilityCompany which downloads a software set that tracks air conditionerthermostat set-points and passes that information back to a Utilitycompany server. The consumer then gets a bonus for maintaining certaintarget temperatures and by not overriding set-point changes during gridemergencies.

Another set of specialty software is for commercially available devices.If the consumer buys a device from a third party, they can log on anddownload the software that blends that device into their network. It maybe lighting controls, the pool controller mentioned earlier, or a thirdparty thermostat.

As mentioned in the foregoing discussion, the HEG of the presentapplication is particularly useful in a home energy management networkand may receive communication from existing controllers (such as HEMs)and/or replace the controllers (HEMS) in such networks. For example U.S.Ser. No. 12/559,703 describes a home energy management system having acontroller which may be replaced by the HEG described above.

The invention has been described with reference to the preferredembodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur toothers upon reading and understanding the preceding detaileddescription. It is intended that the invention be construed as includingall such modifications and alterations.

1. A device configured in a unitary housing comprising: a computingdevice with memory that stores energy information; a power supply; andprongs attached to the power supply in the same housing, the prongsconfigured to plug into a wall outlet.
 2. The device of claim 1 furtherincluding a reset button on an exterior of the housing to resetoperation of the device.
 3. The device of claim 1 wherein the prongs areremovable and may be interchanged with other prongs by at least one of atool or without a tool.
 4. The device of claim 1 further including aninternal storage battery.
 5. The device of claim 1 wherein the prongs,the power supply and the computing device are provided in an operationalconnection to enable data communication with a remote server via theprongs.
 6. The device of claim 1 wherein the computing device is asingle board computer.
 7. The device of claim 1 wherein the device isconfigured as a home energy gateway for use in a home energy managementenvironment, wherein the home energy gateway is a single pointcommunication device which controls the communication flow of the homeenergy management system.
 8. The device of claim 7 further includinginterface channels configured to enable communication between the homeenergy gateway and a plurality of communication networks.
 9. The deviceof claim 8 configured to interface with two or more networks havingdifferent communication protocols, via the interface channels.
 10. Thedevice of claim 1 further configured to communicate with a plurality ofuser interfaces.
 11. The device of claim 1 wherein a volume of thedevice is less than approximately 160 cubic centimeters.
 12. The deviceof claim 1 wherein a weight of the device is less than approximately 100grams.
 13. The device of claim 1 wherein the device is setup using zeroconfiguration networking.
 14. A home energy gateway configured in aunitary housing for use in an energy management system that includes aplurality of communication networks, the home energy gateway comprising:a plurality of interface channels corresponding to the plurality ofcommunication networks; a computing device that exchanges energy datawith the plurality of communication networks via the plurality ofinterface channels; and prongs attached to the power supply in theunitary housing, the prongs configured to plug into a wall outlet. 15.The device of claim 14 wherein the prongs are removable and may beinterchanged with other prongs by at least one of a tool or without atool.
 16. The device of claim 14 further including an internal storagebattery.
 17. The device of claim 14 wherein the prongs, the power supplyand the computing device are provided in an operational connection tosend data to a remote server over the prongs.
 18. The device of claim 14wherein the computing device is a single board computer.
 19. The deviceof claim 14 wherein the device is configured as a home energy gatewayfor use in a home energy management environment, wherein the home energygateway is a single point communication device which controls thecommunication flow of the home energy management system.
 20. The deviceof claim 19 further including interface channels configured to enablecommunication between the home energy gateway and a plurality ofcommunication networks.
 21. The device of claim 20 configured tointerface with two or more networks having different communicationprotocols, via the interface channels.